Question

Describe several upper and lower respiratory tract disorders (other than cancer). If appropriate, explain why breathing is difficult with these conditions. (pages \(198-200\) )

Short answer

Sinusitis, Asthma, and Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) are all respiratory tract disorders that can hinder respiration. Sinusitis is an upper respiratory disorder where inflammation in the nasal cavity due to viral, bacterial, or fungal infections, allergies, or structural problems, can lead to congestion and swelling, making it difficult to breathe through the nose. Asthma and COPD, lower respiratory tract disorders, result in breathing difficulties due to constriction and inflammation of the airways and damage to lung tissues respectively. Asthma often involves episodes of shortness of breath, wheezing, and coughing triggered by allergens, irritants, physical activity, cold air, or infections. COPD, a progression of diseases that includes emphysema and chronic bronchitis, is majorly caused by exposure to tobacco smoke. In COPD, the reduced airflow and difficulty in expelling air from the lungs result in frequent bouts of coughing, shortness of breath, and regular difficulties in performing routine activities.

Step-by-step solution

1. Selection of Upper and Lower Respiratory Tract Disorders

We will discuss three respiratory tract disorders: one affecting the upper respiratory tract and two affecting the lower respiratory tract.

Upper Respiratory Tract Disorder - Sinusitis

Sinusitis is an inflammation of the sinuses, which are air-filled spaces in the skull surrounding the nasal cavity. It can be caused by viral, bacterial, or fungal infections, allergies, or structural problems in the nasal passage. Breathing difficulties in sinusitis might arise due to inflammation, congestion, and swelling in the nasal cavity. This results in difficulty in breathing through the nose and an increased need to breathe through the mouth.

Lower Respiratory Tract Disorder - Asthma

Asthma is a chronic respiratory disease characterized by inflammation of the airways, leading to narrowing and constriction. Asthma can be triggered by various factors, such as allergens, irritants, exercise, cold air, or viral infections. Breathing difficulties in asthma occur due to the constriction and inflammation of the airways. This leads to increased difficulty in moving air in and out of the lungs, causing shortness of breath, wheezing, and coughing.

Lower Respiratory Tract Disorder - Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD)

Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) is a group of progressive lung diseases, including emphysema and chronic bronchitis. The primary cause of COPD is exposure to tobacco smoke, both in smokers and through secondhand smoke. Other factors include air pollution and genetic predisposition. Breathing difficulties in COPD are due to the destruction of lung tissue, airway narrowing, and inflammation in the airways. This results in reduced airflow and difficulty expelling air from the lungs, leading to shortness of breath, frequent coughing, and difficulty performing everyday activities. In summary, sinusitis, asthma, and COPD are examples of upper and lower respiratory tract disorders that can cause breathing difficulties. The reasons for difficulty in breathing are due to inflammation, congestion, narrowing or constriction of airways, and damage to lung tissue.